Today we’d like to introduce you to Cheri Galt.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I was taught to sew as a kid. Coming from a large family, this skill came in handy as I made many of my own clothes. When it came time for college though, I chose not to pursue a creative vocation, but rather what was relayed to me as more “sensible”, a career in business. Later, when I was in the middle of enjoying a 25-year-long career as a professional negotiator in the healthcare industry, I unexpectedly had to leave due to health issues related to my brain. After a year of recovery, I moved to San Diego to continue recovering and be closer to family. I landed in an artist loft in the Gas Lamp District. What an amazing experience. Surrounded by creatives, this is when I took up sewing again.
I’ve always been fascinated by textiles and am always happiest when I have an art project to work on. During my corporate career, however, I rarely had time to create the types of projects that inspired me. So, when I arrived in San Diego I did two things. First, I discovered a master-metalsmith and started learning to create jewelry in his studio a few hours each week. And second, I found a supplier for mudcloth and began designing handbags. That first year in San Diego is what I affectionately referred to as “a year of making things.” Just the kind of low-pressure creative outlet my brain needed to continue improving. Friends and family were reacting favorably to some of the items I was creating and asked for more. Eventually, and inspired by my maternal grandma who was a seamstress and one of the coolest characters on the planet, I launched Vianna & Co., where I design and create handcrafted coats, handbags and jewelry.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I just launched a few weeks ago, so maybe I can share more about obstacles and challenges in a year or so! However, I usually don’t view a process as easy or difficult, but rather work that needs to be done….and if I don’t know how to do it, I’d better figure it out. I think that comes from being raised in a large family. I will also say that one of my favorite things about San Diego is the sheer volume of creative people who are always willing to help, guide, or counsel when you need an assist. I’ve had the pleasure of meeting some pretty amazing friends who have come alongside me to help get this company off the ground. My current challenge is learning to navigate social media marketing effectively. Not quite there yet, but still working on it!
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I currently design and create handcrafted one-of-a-kind coats, handbags, and jewelry. I had been making mudcloth handbags for a few months (in between making masks for friends as Covid first arrived, and masks weren’t yet readily available) when I had an epiphany. I realized that I wanted to make the kind of warm, funky coats that I’d want to wear. Beautiful garments that enhance one’s individuality, making a statement. As soon as I had a few coats made, I enlisted the aid of my son to get them photographed. From there, it just felt right to start Vianna & Co. Making unique one-of-a-kind statement pieces is such a joy for me.
Having only launched about eight weeks ago, I look forward to getting the word out about Vianna & Co., creating new designs, and doing some collaboration work with friends. I believe that it is important to always give back. As a result, I’m researching and evaluating different charities to collaborate with so that Vianna & Co. can give back to the country of Mali, where mudcloth originates. I’m excited to be adding this piece to my website very soon.
We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you?
I am certainly blessed in so many ways. Additionally, I have the good fortune of coming from a family that works with their hands. We’re all creative, although in my generation, none of us really made a living at it. My kids and my nieces and nephews are now blazing career trails using their creativity. Although I never had the guts to try, until now, I’m grateful to have such a fulfilling opportunity.
Contact Info:
- Email: info@viannaandcompany.com
- Website: viannaandcompany.com
- Instagram: @viannaandcompany
- Facebook: @Vianna&Co.
Image Credits:
Jimmy Galt (galtvisual.com)
